The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is Australia's national transport safety investigator. The ATSB's function is to improve safety and public confidence in the aviation, marine and rail modes of transport. The ATSB is Australia's prime agency for the independent investigation of civil aviation, rail and maritime accidents, incidents and safety deficiencies.

Safety issue description

The ARTC procedure ANPR-701 (Using a Track Occupancy Authority) was inconsistent in that it did not allow for a scenario that would otherwise be permitted, and intended, under rule ANWT-304 (Track Occupancy Authority).

Proactive Action

Action organisation:

ARTC

Action number:

RO-2010-004-NSA-019

Date:

20 April 2012

Action status:

Closed

The ARTC has trained its employees in this particular scenario and will review the procedure to ensure that it is consistent with the training and the TOA Form.

ATSB response:

The ATSB is satisfied that the Australian Rail Track Corporation has initiated action to address this safety issue.